Melnik is the smallest town in Bulgaria (population of 250). Melnik is an architectural reserve, a historical town, a monument of culture. From the previously rich and prosperous town now remain what is left of the fortress wall of Lord Slav, houses and wine cellars, churches and monasteries. The natural scenery of Melnik is truly amazing. Impressive and austerely splendid, the Melnik pyramids rank among the most remarkable natural phenomena in Bulgaria.

The Kurdopulov House (1754) is a veritable gem of Bulgarian architecture of the National Revival, remarkably planned and executed. Its basement contains one of the largest wine cellars in the town equipped with special canals and ventilation. Also there are decorative murals and stained Venetian glass, exquisite carved ceilings and sumptuous Baroque decoration.

Rojen Monastery is only 6 km from Melnik in an easterly direction and has existed since the Second Bulgarian Kingdom in the Middle Ages. The church in its yard, built in 1600, was renewed and painted in the 18th century. It contains a wealth of splendid stained glass, openwork wood carvings and old icons.

See some pictures from the excursion here.